The new-generation Suzuki Wagon R (new Maruti Wagon R 2017 in India) and Stingray have finally broken cover in Japan. Both the models receive an all-new design and several comfort and connectivity features. The Japan-spec new Suzuki WagonR comes in three grades – FA, FX Hybrid and FZ Hybrid – combined with 2WD and optional AWD system. One must note that the Japan-spec model will not come to India. Though, the India-bound new Maruti WagonR 2017 will borrow some its design elements from the Japanese sibling.

First launched in 1999-2000, the Maruti Suzuki WagonR has been among the top-selling cars for the Indo-Japanese carmaker in India. In its life span, the tall-boy hatchback received three major updates in 2003, 2006 and then in the year 2010. In 2010, the vehicle had entered its second generation as it is based on a new platform and gets a more spacious cabin. Now, that it’s been almost 7 years since the last major update, the company is now planning to bring in the new Maruti Wagon R 2017 model with some comprehensive changes. Read More – Maruti Suzuki Swift 2017 Revealed

New Maruti Wagon R 2017 Exterior

The WagonR has always been favoured for its tall-boy design, as that makes it highly practical. The new-gen Japan-spec model continues to carry the tall stance, but now it looks boxier than before. The front bumper gets an all-new design with a large airdam, angular headlamps and shortened bonnet. The two-part grille seems inspired from Chevy. Wearing the large B-Pillars, the side profile looks more like a van.

What add more to its tall-ish appearance are bold character lines running across the sides and prominent wheel arches. The rear design is long and flat. It sports a new roof-mounted spoiler with LED tail lamps, a large rear windshield and low-positioned horizontal tail lights. The Japanese-spec 2017 Wagon R measures 3,395mm in length, 1,475mm in width and 1,650mm in height with a wheelbase of 2,460mm. It stands tall with a ground clearance of 150mm. The hatchback has fuel tank capacity of 27-litres.

New Maruti Wagon R 2017 Interior

Inside, the 2017 Suzuki Wagon R gets a beige interior theme with new dashboard with a tablet-like touchscreen infotainment system and a centre-mounted instrument cluster. The WagonR is one of the only few entry-level cars that can accommodate people over six feet quite comfortably. The car is also used for carrying really heavy household stuff, and all these things make it an ideal small car for Indian families.

New Maruti Wagon R 2017 Specifications

Specifications

WagonR 2017

Engine

1.0-litre K-Series Petrol

Power

67bhp

Torque

91Nm

Gearbox

5-speed MT / AMT

In Japan, the new WagonR comes with one petrol and two hybrid variants. While the petrol version derives its power from a 660cc, 3-cylinder motor that’s good for 51bhp and 60Nm, the hybrid variants additionally get a 3.1bhp, WAO5A electric motor producing 50Nm of torque. The India-spec new Maruti Wagon R 2017 will be based on a newer platform. While it may not be an all-new platform, the company might tweak the existing platform to make it structurally strong.

With the stricter vehicle norms coming into effect from 2017, all the carmakers will have to pass the crash tests in order to sell their products here. And to achieve that, all the cars will have to be structurally stronger. Having said that, the vehicle’s engine could be the same 1.0-litre K-series unit that does duty in the current model. Paired to a 5-speed manual or AGS (Auto GearShift), this motor churns out power worth 67bhp against 91Nm of torque. Read: Upcoming Maruti Suzuki Cars in India – Complete List

New Maruti Wagon R 2017 Other Changes

Besides a newer platform, the company might also use better grade steel to build its body to make it structurally stronger. The company will also have to offer dual airbags (for driver and front co-passenger) as per new safety norms.

New Maruti Wagon R 2017 India Launch

It’s quite easy to guess that the new WagonR will arrive in the Indian market in 2017, since the Bharat New Vehicle Safety Assessment Program (BNVSAP) will come into effect from October 2017. And with the current structure, the WagonR won’t be able to pass the safety test. More details on this will be revealed closer to its launch.

New Maruti Wagon R 2017 Price in India

Minimum

Rs 4.50 Lakh

Maximum

Rs 5.5 Lakh

With a newer platform, new safety features and design changes, we expect the 2017 Maruti Suzuki WagonR’s prices will a tad higher than the current model. While the current model comes in the range of Rs 4.09 lakh – 5.15 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi), the new model could be priced between Rs 4.50 lakh – Rs 5.50 lakh.